The line starts here: International iPad pricing, data plans, and more

While US folks have been enjoying their iPads for weeks, buyers in nine international markets can finally pre-order both WiFi and WiFi+3G version of the 9.7-inch multitouch gizmo beginning today. International iPad pricing may shock those expecting to buy the device at US price points.

As promised, Apple has begun taking pre-orders for both WiFi and WiFi+3G iPad models in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Switzerland, and the UK. Localized iPad pages and prices went live on the corresponding Apple sites. In addition, local carriers have submitted details of 3G data plans on their sites. with Apple sites relaying most of their information at press time. For example, O2 and Orange revealed data deals for would-be iPad buyers in the UK. Meanwhile, Canadian iPad customers will be buying their 3G data through Rogers Wireless.

While the carrier matched AT&T’s $15 a month 250MB plan, it doesn’t offer an unlimited option like AT&T and instead sells 5GB of data for $35 a month. Other differences may also apply. For instance, iPads sold in Japan is sold locked to Softbank Mobile rather than unlocked for use with any carrier, like in other territories, including the US. The device uses a new Micro-SIM card but yout can easily cut out a full-sized SIM card and make it a Micro-SIM.

Here’s a handy list of local Apple homepages that provide more information about the plans, pricing, and terms of purchase:

Interestingly, the iBookstore app seems to be available in most of the nine new countries, revealing that Apple plans to position the device as the ultimate e-reader on a global basis. There have been some concerns during the weekend that the iPads sold outside the US come with a hefty Apple tax, allegedly prompting Steve Jobs to address the matter. According to a pair of Steve Jobs email replies, iPad retail prices in the US don’t include tax, unlike international models that are required to include sales tax by law. Count in higher costs of doing business in Europe and other overseas territories, and it all falls in place, Jobs reportedly argued.